NHK Brings Tomoko Boryoku's Manga to Life
Excitement builds as NHK announces the production of a live-action series based on Tomoko Boryoku's heartwarming manga, "An Older Guy's VR First Love" (VR Ojisan no Hatsukoi). Set to premiere in April, the series promises to bring to life the unique and touching narrative that has captivated readers.
Stellar Cast Takes Center Stage
The live-action adaptation features Toru Namaguchi as the protagonist Naoki Endō in the real world, and Anna Kurasawa as Naoki, the online persona. Hiroe Igeta takes on the role of Honami, adding depth to the cast. The series is directed by Teruyuki Yoshida, Tomohiro Kuwano, Shunsuke Nakamura, and Shinichiro Ishikawa. Scriptwriter Mash Morino and composer Takashi Watanabe contribute their talents to elevate the series.
A Virtual World of First Love
The manga's premise revolves around Naoki Endō, a forty-year-old single temp worker who, in the world of virtual reality, transforms into a lovely young girl. Within this digital realm, Naoki encounters his first love—the cheerful and beautiful Honami. As the boundaries between reality and virtuality blur, the series explores themes of love, escapism, and the unexpected connections that can blossom in the most unexpected places.
English Readers Delve into the Virtual Romance
Kodansha USA has already introduced English readers to the charms of "An Older Guy's VR First Love," releasing the manga in November 2022. The English publication by Kodansha USA allows a global audience to delve into the poignant and transformative narrative penned by Tomoko Boryoku.
The Manga's Journey from Serialization to Live-Action
Originally serialized on Ichijinsha's Zero-Sum Online website in 2020, "An Older Guy's VR First Love" quickly garnered attention for its unique premise and emotional resonance. With the release of the second compiled volume in February 2023, the manga's journey from the digital pages to the live-action screen marks a significant milestone.
Exploring Themes of Escape and Discovery
The narrative delves into Naoki's life, a world of disappointment and unfulfilled potential. As he escapes to the virtual realm to take on a new persona, he encounters the vivacious and charming Honami. The series intertwines the themes of escaping the mundane and discovering unexpected connections, offering a rich and engaging narrative.
Anticipation Grows for April Premiere
With NHK at the helm of the live-action adaptation, fans of the manga and newcomers alike eagerly anticipate the series' April premiere. "An Older Guy's VR First Love" promises to bring a unique blend of romance, escapism, and self-discovery to the small screen, captivating audiences with its heartfelt storytelling and memorable characters.
